MSAA Names Verizon Communications Executive Joseph R. King Chair of the Board of Directors
Joseph R. King, Director of External Affairs for Verizon Communications, Inc. was recently appointed chair of the Multiple Sclerosis Association of America's (MSAA) Board of Directors effective June 4, 2004. Nominated to the position by his peers on MSAA's Board of Directors, King will serve as chairman for a two-year term. He succeeds Timothy McHugh, Esq., who previously held the position for the last two years.
"Being asked to lead MSAA's Board of Directors is a great honor," says King. "MSAA does so many special things on a daily basis that truly ease the day-to-day lives of those with MS and their care partners. I am looking forward to the work ahead, playing an important role in the decision-making process for programs and services that will ultimately benefit individuals who must cope with the challenging symptoms of MS. Our mission helps a growing number of people across the nation everyday, and the satisfaction this brings is a reward well worth the time I will devote to MSAA over the next two years. Again, this is an honor, and I will do my best to fulfill the duties of MSAA's Board Chair."
MSAA President and CEO Douglas G. Franklin says, The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America welcomes the appointment of Joseph R. King as Chairperson of the National Board of Directors. As an organization devoted exclusively to improving the quality of life of individuals with MS and their care partners, the Association is extremely fortunate to have someone with Mr. King's extensive experience and professional background in the corporate, nonprofit, and governmental affairs professions. Franklin continues, His enthusiasm and personal commitment to volunteerism and its significant contribution to society will be instrumental in the continued successful growth of the Association in the years ahead.
King was a leader in the nonprofit world for over 30 years working with various organizations such as the United States Olympic Committee, Boy Scouts of America, United Cerebral Palsy Association, Youth for Understanding, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving. Working with these organizations helped in establishing King as a national leader in the areas of volunteer management, sports marketing, corporate fundraising, cause-related marketing, government, and public relations.
King utilized this experience in establishing the Narragansett Group in 1991 where he served as chairman and chief executive officer. King is a native of Providence, Rhode Island and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Salem College. King and his family currently reside in Grapevine, Texas.
The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America is a national nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people affected by multiple sclerosis. MSAA offers programs and services including a toll-free Helpline (1-800-532-7667); support groups; equipment ranging from grab bars to wheelchairs; home modifications; MRI funding and insurance advocacy; educational literature including a quarterly magazine, The Motivator ; Lending Library; a cooling program for heat-sensitive individuals, and more.
The most common neurological disorder diagnosed in young adults, multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. This disorder damages or destroys the protective covering (known as myelin) surrounding the nerves, causing reduced communication between the brain and nerve pathways. Common symptoms include visual problems, overwhelming fatigue, difficulty with balance and coordination, and various levels of impaired mobility. MS is not contagious or fatal.
